Arsenal’s teenage sensation Ethan Nwaneri is making waves with his performances, yet Premier League safeguarding rules still prevent him from using the first-team dressing room.
The 17-year-old showcased his immense talent last week, scoring in his Champions League debut against Girona before delivering another stunning goal in Arsenal’s 5-1 rout of Manchester City.
Despite his impact, regulations dictate that Nwaneri must change elsewhere on matchdays, unlike fellow academy graduate Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Manager Mikel Arteta highlighted their close bond, calling them “lucky” to have each other as they adjust to first-team life.
While Nwaneri’s development excites Arsenal fans, Arteta has a more pressing concern—his lack of striker options. With Gabriel Jesus out for the season, the club pursued reinforcements, including an unsuccessful move for Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins.
The failure to secure a forward leaves Kai Havertz as the only recognized senior striker, with Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli, Raheem Sterling, and even Nwaneri potential alternatives.
Arteta admitted his frustration but insisted Arsenal must adapt. “We had a clear intention to strengthen, and we didn’t achieve that,” he said. “Now, we have to be very flexible with our attacking approach.”
Havertz, who has faced criticism this season, redeemed himself with a goal in Arsenal’s dominant win over City, taking his tally to 15 goals in 33 appearances. Arteta remains confident in his squad’s ability to compete despite the transfer setback.
Looking ahead, Arsenal faces a crucial Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Newcastle, trailing 2-0 from the first leg. Arteta believes the momentum from their emphatic win over City could fuel a comeback, urging his players to go “full gas” in pursuit of a Wembley final.